The Comparative Analysis of Hardness Values in FC250 Cast Iron Based on Literature Studies

Abstract

Gray cast iron (FC250) is a material widely used in engine components, such as cylinder sleeves and brake shoes, due to its good mechanical properties and economical production process. This study aims to analyze the comparative hardness value of FC250 cast iron based on literature studies and laboratory test results. The methods used include chemical composition testing using an Optical Emission Spectrometer (OES) and hardness testing using a Vickers Matsuzawa VMT-7 on four cylinder sleeve samples. The test results show that the chemical content of FC250 is relatively in accordance with standards, although there are small variations in C, Si, and S elements when compared to the literature. The average hardness value of the tested cylinder sleeves is 192.3 HB, lower than the reference FC250 hardness value of ±220 HB. This difference indicates the influence of chemical composition, microstructural phase distribution, and casting process factors on the mechanical properties of the material. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of composition control and casting parameters to obtain material quality according to application standards.